Trump Threatens Federalize DC Over Youth Crime

President Donald Trump has threatened to federalize Washington, D.C., in response to what he describes as rampant violent crime perpetrated by local youths, some as young as 14. He called for changes in the law to allow these minors to be prosecuted as adults and face longer prison sentences, citing a recent brutal attack on a DOGE employee defending a woman as an example. Trump criticized the city's current leadership for being ineffective in controlling crime and emphasized the need for the district to be safe, clean, and presentable to Americans and the world. Despite his threat, federalizing D.C. would require Congressional action to override the city's home rule, which currently grants local control to the mayor and city council. The issue of youth crime is highlighted by statistics showing minors are responsible for a significant portion of violent offenses, including carjackings. Trump has reiterated his intention to intervene if local authorities do not improve safety measures swiftly.